Cost of Living in Grand Isle County, Vermont
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Grand Isle County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Grand Isle County ranks #682 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Grand Isle County, Vermont
Island living costs more, but incomes support it
Grand Isle County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% exceeds Vermont's state average of 17.8%, placing it among the state's more expensive markets, yet its median household income of $90,625 ranks second-statewide and 21% above the national average. Island living commands a premium, but stronger-than-average incomes help offset higher housing costs.
Island premium reflected in housing costs
Grand Isle's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio is among Vermont's highest, paired with a median home value of $363,500 that ranks third statewide after Chittenden. Despite strong median income of $90,625, the island location elevates both rents and home values, creating a premium-priced market second only to Chittenden.
Island pricing exceeds nearby mainland counties
Grand Isle's median rent of $1,436 is substantially higher than Franklin ($1,164) and Lamoille ($1,123), though lower than Chittenden's $1,590, reflecting its island premium. Home values of $363,500 similarly position Grand Isle between Addison ($333,700) and Chittenden ($404,500), marking it as the region's second-priciest real estate market.
Premium housing supported by strong wages
Renters pay $1,436 monthly and homeowners $1,597 against a median income of $90,625, consuming 19.0% of household budgets. While this is Vermont's second-highest housing burden, incomes are strong enough that families retain over 81% of earnings for other needs.
Choose islands if you value lifestyle and earn well
Grand Isle's picturesque island communities command higher rents and home prices, but strong median incomes make housing manageable for well-earning relocators prioritizing lifestyle. If you need maximum affordability, choose Caledonia or Essex; if you want island living with strong incomes, Grand Isle delivers.
Cost of Living Advisory: Grand Isle County
Affordability Verdict
Grand Isle County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,436/month representing approximately 19.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Grand Isle County is $1,436/month, while owner costs run $1,597/month. Renting saves approximately $161/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $57,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $68,443/year. With a median household income of $90,625, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Grand Isle County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Vermont, Grand Isle County is less affordable than Chittenden County by roughly 10% ($1,436/mo vs $1,590/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Grand Isle County
Rent Burden
19.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,115
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.1%
of gross income
The median home in Grand Isle County may be a stretch
Median home value is $363,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,902 vs. your max of $2,115.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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